Tension has escalated in Mboke Umuoye, Imerienwe community in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State, following a violent attack on members of the Umuokere and Amadi family by armed men allegedly acting as a neighbourhood security force.
The incident, which occurred amid an ongoing dispute over a parcel of land known as Okohia Ala-Ukwu, left a lawyer and prominent family member, Pastor Barrister Iyke Nwawuike (JP), seriously injured after he was reportedly assaulted with the butt of a gun and threatened with being shot.
According to the family, the attackers—described as armed thugs—claimed they were acting on the orders of the Traditional Ruler of Imerienwe, Eze Augustine Ekechi, in connection with efforts to take control of the disputed land.
Family sources allege that the group, originally constituted as a neighbourhood security outfit, has been weaponised to intimidate and forcibly dispossess rightful landowners. They further claimed that the land in question had been previously adjudicated by the traditional ruler and his council, with a ruling affirming ownership by the Umuokere and Amadi family.
Despite that earlier decision, the family said renewed interest in the land—reportedly driven by rising property values—has led to fresh encroachment, including illegal logging and continued occupation attempts.
The dispute had earlier been reported to the police, leading to at least one arrest. However, the family alleges that further incursions have persisted, raising concerns about enforcement and protection.
Describing the attack as a “coordinated act of intimidation,” the family has issued an urgent appeal to authorities, warning of potential escalation and threats to their lives. They expressed fears that continued harassment could lead to more severe violence under the guise of insecurity or criminal activity.
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As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the traditional ruler for comment were unsuccessful, while security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the latest development.
The incident adds to growing concerns over land disputes and the alleged misuse of local security structures in parts of the state.
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